27-6 vs 27-2

[EvenStephen]

I'm new to collecting and recently bought a 27-6 in excellent condition. According to those on the forum, I paid a fair price. However, I've seen similar posts about older iterations (27-2 or 27-3) that seem to be worth a bit more in the same condition. Is that simply because they're older or are the pinned barrel guns considered better or what?

 

[ttrotter]

It's all a matter of personal preference, imho. I just have a fondness for p&r (pinned bbls & recessed cylinders) Smiths, so I'm willing to pay a few extra bucks to satisfy my itch. I think that is the only reason they command a slight premium-sometimes! We are talking about pre-lock guns here, of course .
Congrats on your 27-6.

 

[murphydog]

Functionally, your 27-6 works just as well as an older version. As with most companies, S & W looked for ways to cut costs, and many of the later versions of older guns had changes that were perceived as less desirable (MIM parts, matte finish, etc.) Pinned barreled guns (27-2 and earlier) tend to be worth more, especially in nicer condition, but in my opinion that is very much a collector issue. Enjoy your new 27!

 

[EvenStephen]

Thanks guys. It's my first N frame and I love it. What year did they start using MIM parts?

 

[murphydog]

Hi again, my understanding is about 1997, so in regard to your (1993) gun specifically it has the forged hammer and trigger.

 

[Art Doc]

Most guys with guns (especially us older ones) tend to lean towards the conservative and appreciate the craftsmanship and features found on the older guns. newer guns work fine and do what they are meant to do. But they lack the panache, the fit and finish of the earlier, more hand-crafted versions.

With the 27 line, the -2 is generally seen as the last of the really finely crafted versions. The -3 started dropping features and subsequent models just aren't as stylish.

Of course, the further back in time you go, the more appreciated the S&W becomes...

 

[fyimo]

The Model 27 is a great handgun and as many has mentioned the 27-2 is the last one most collectors and some shooters will buy because they love the pinned and recessed features of the gun and some people are willing to pay more for them. They probably won't shoot any better then yours it's just a slightly different look and feel to them.

I love the Model 27 and consider it the best looking revolver made by S&W because I love the checkered top strap.

My 27-2 with 4 inch barrel

 

[desman]

I also very recently bought a model 27-6 in almost new condition for a very good price.Now make no mistake,its a lovely firearm,but when I put it side to side with my 29-2,the bluing and finish is not quite as comparable,and the action and trigger is perhaps not quite as smooth,but its still a perfectly acceptable gun and one that will certainly see plenty of range time.I can certainly see where collectors are coming from when they draw the line at the dash 2's

One thing that I have noticed about the newer Smiths however,is that in comparison to the older examples,there is very little info on the net or otherwise about them